Red wine is a rich source of different phenolic compounds which contribute to sensorial wine characteristics and can exhibit various biological properties. In vitro and animal studies have suggested that phenolics present in wine may exert a wide range of potential beneficial effects to human health, which involves antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anti-diabetic and anti-cancer activity. In this book, Chapter One discusses available data concerning the most important clinical trials focused on the biological effects of wine and wine phenolics, particulary resveratrol. Chapter Two examines the benefits of the use of starter cultures in wine microbiological processes. Chapter Three reviews the antioxidant activity of Glycine max L. Merr, Hibiscus Sabdariffa L., yellow tea and red wine, and their contributions to health. Chapter Four presents the relationship between the chemical composition and the organoleptic properties of red wine.

In 2011 when Alice Feiring first arrived in Georgia, she felt as if she'd emerged from the magic wardrobe into a world filled with mythical characters making exotic and delicious wine with the low tech of centuries past. She was smitten, and she wasn't alone. This country on the Black Sea has an unusual effect on people; the most passionate rip off their clothes and drink wines out of horns while the cold-hearted well up with tears and parse emotional toasts. Visiting winemakers fall under Georgia's spell and bring home qvevris (clay fermentation vessels) while rethinking their own techniques. But as in any good fairy tale, Feiring sensed that danger ran shotgun with the magic. With acclaim and growing international interest come threats in the guise of new wine consultants aimed at making wines more commercial. So Feiring fought back in the only way she knew how-by celebrating Georgia and the men and women who make the wines she loves most, those made naturally with organic viticulture, minimal intervention, and no additives. From Tbilisi to Batumi, Feiring meets winemakers, bishops, farmers, artists, and silk spinners. She feasts, toasts, and collects recipes. She encounters the thriving qvevri craftspeople of the countryside, wild grape hunters, and even Stalin's last winemaker-while plumbing the depths of this tiny country's love for its wines. For the Love of Wine is Feiring's emotional tale of a remarkable country and people who have survived religious wars and Soviet occupation, yet managed always to keep hold of its precious wine traditions. Embedded in the narrative is even hope that Georgia has the temerity to confront its latest threat-modernization.